Serena Williams Reflects on Body Image Struggles Amid Weight Loss Medication Controversy

Tennis legend Serena Williams has shared her reflections on the unfair scrutiny she has faced regarding her body throughout her career. Early in her tennis journey, Serena revealed that critical comments about her physique led her to wish she fit a smaller size.

In a 2018 interview, she explained, People would say I was born a guy, all because of my arms, or because Im strong. Ill never be a size 4! Why would I want to do that?

Recently, Serena elaborated on the challenges she experienced at the start of her career due to her body differing from that of her peers. In an interview with PORTER, she said, In the first 15 years, my body was different. I had big boobs; I had a big butt. Every athlete was super flat, super thin, and beautiful in a different way. I didnt know as an athlete how to navigate that.

She added, It affects you mentally. You think youre large your whole life, but looking back, I was fit. I had big muscles. I didnt look like the other girls, but not everyone looks the same.

Serenas openness comes amid ongoing discussions about her use of weight loss medication. After weeks of speculation, she confirmed in August that she has been using a prescribed medication to manage her weight. GLP-1 helped me enhance everything I was already doing eating healthy and working out. I feel great. I feel really good and healthy. I feel light physically and light mentally, she told People.

Her comments about using the medication drew mixed reactions online. Some questioned whether even elite athletes can achieve societys ideal body, reflecting on broader issues around body image standards.

Actress and activist Jameela Jamil publicly criticized Serenas use of the drug, expressing discomfort with the choice.

Serenas full interview with PORTER offers more insight into her perspective on body image, fitness, and mental health throughout her career.

Author: Sophia Brooks